5 Web Design Musts for 2014

An average user spends 60 seconds or less on a web page. So it is essential you clearly communicate its unique selling point within 10 seconds if you want the user to spend any more time on your site.

How long the user spends on your site will also give you a good idea of its popularity. Additionally, the higher the browsing time the better chance of converting the user. Whatever a ‘conversion’ is to you – a sale, a sign up to a newsletter or establishing a social media connection.

This is why having a well designed site is essential. If it doesn’t look professional, they won’t put their trust in you or even stick around to browse.

Here are 5 tips to implement on your site for 2014:

Call to action on every page.

The main goal of your website is to make your visitor take action. This could be anything from watching a video to filling out a contact form. Make it apparent to the user what you want them to do. Whether its a button or hyperlink, include a call to action on every page that directs them to the action you want them to take.

Navigation must be understandable and easy to use.How long your visitor is engaged by your site depends a lot on how easy it is to navigate. The structure should be consistent throughout, easy to understand and aimed at your ideal user experience. You should also make the navigation flexible enough to change as your website changes in the future.

Shout about quality and relevant information.Your content needs not only be original and compelling, but placed so that viewers are directed to exactly what they have been seeking. Working with a content strategist and even SEO experts could help produce brilliant results for your site. Once they have finalized content for the website project you can work your designer magic using a variation of font types, font weights, colours and imagery to guide the users in the right areas of the site. Always remember to utilize strong call to actions.

Go Big and Bold!The old adage that an image speaks a thousand words, has never been truer than on the internet. It is a very hot trend in web design to have big brilliant and engaging images drawing the users attention. This is because the photos you use will not just grab your users attention, but will also define your websites image and give you a personality. A photo in the background, header or a central element can achieve all these things.

Social media is King.Your website and social media should work in tandem to create and promote your online brand. Integrate social where it makes sense and don’t overdo it. Make sure to include visible social media buttons in your design. Best practices recommend that these buttons should be presented on the top, bottom or along the side of your home page. Links or buttons that stick in your navigation as the user proceeds from page to page are optimal.